Edinburgh Diamond Devils 17 - Edinburgh Cannons 4

The Devils and the Cannons faced off in the traditional start to the Scottish baseball season, but you could be forgiven in thinking that this was a midseason game with what expert meteorologists have advised is “The Sun” making appearing in the sky much to everyone’s surprise.

The Devils were last seasons champions and were looking to continue their run with the same core of players who performed so well last season led by skipper Chris Leadingham. The Cannons were looking the future with several prospects supplementing their experienced core led by manager Jason. Would the creaking legs of the Devils hold up against the promise of youth?

The Devils hit first and took advantage of a rusty Cannons infield by scoring two runs in the first inning with Sylvain and Callum scoring the first runs of the season for the Devils. However, the Cannons hit back immediately by getting two on against Devils Ace Hsin-Yen. Up stepped cleanup hitter Oliver to smash a massive drive down the left field line clearing the fences. However, much to the Cannons dismay it was just foul, but Oliver would hit a two run double later in the at bat to tie the game.The Devils had a very strong line-up top to bottom and they shows this in the 2nd inning with 5 hits including a double by James and a debut single for French right fielder JC. This hitting barrage but four runs on the board. The Cannons would hit back with a run in the bottom of the inning to close the gap to 6-3.

The Devils continued their merciless onslaught in the 3rd with a further 5 hits including a double from Sylvain. The Devils also showed off some wheels with a cunning double steal of 2nd and home that saw Callum scamper home. The Cannons attempted to counter but by now Hsin-Yen had settled into his groove and the movement on his pitches was proving too much for the inexperienced Cannons line-up as he began to rack up strikeouts.Jason had also found his rhythm and began to take control allowing only another 2 runs over the next three innings keeping the Devils hitters off balance, but the Cannons still couldn’t get past Hsin-Yen and the Devils defence as good pitching and nice defence, particularly a couple of nice plays by 3rd baseman Jeremy restricted the Cannons to one further run.

In the 7th inning the Cannons resistance was finally broken as the Devils were able to score another 5 runs. The Devils offence but the ball in play almost constantly today with only two strikeouts and the strain finally took its toll on the Cannons as a couple of errors crept into their game.

The Cannons had the top of the order up to try and get back into the game but there was no stopping Hsin-Yen, who despite a hard hit ball by Jason into the outfield got the 3 outs needed to end the game with the Devils finishing 17-4 winners.So a winning start for the Devils who will be pleased with a great all round display with the pitching hitting and defence looking sharp, confirming their status as bookies favourites to retain their title.The Cannons will take heart from some good hitting against a tough pitcher and in form defence and that every game is good experience for their developing players.